Philippines’ ICU, ward beds occupancy rate remain at high risk

The occupancy rate of the country’s intensive care unit beds and ward beds for COVID-19 patients remain at high risk, data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed Tuesday.

High risk means an occupancy rate of more than 70% but less than 85%.

Based on the latest bulletin, 76% of the 4,200 ICU beds in the country are occupied while 75% of the 1,400 ICU beds in Metro Manila are in use.

Data also showed that around 74% of the 15,300 ward beds nationwide are being utilized while 74% of the 4,200 ward beds in Metro Manila are occupied.

Meanwhile, 58% of the country’s 3,300 mechanical ventilators are in use while 64% of the 1,200 mechanical ventilators in Metro Manila are occupied.

A number of hospitals have temporarily suspended accepting COVID-19 patients in August with their wards at full capacity.

The Philippine College of Physicians has also said that emergency rooms in some hospitals are operating more than 100%.

The DOH has previously admitted that there was a "disconnect" between their data and the actual situation on the ground regarding COVID-19 cases in the country.—LDF, GMA News